Women's Health

Information, Symptoms, Treatments and Resources

Menopause and Mental Health

Midlife
is often considered a period of increased risk for depression in women.
Some women report mood swings, irritability, tearfulness, anxiety, and
feelings of despair in the years leading up to menopause. But the
reason for these emotional problems isn’t always clear. Research shows
that menopausal symptoms such as sleep problems, hot flashes, night
sweats, and fatigue can affect mood and well-being. The drop in
estrogen levels during perimenopause and menopause might also affect
mood. Or it could be a combination of hormone changes and menopausal
symptoms.

But changes in mood also can have causes
that are unrelated to menopause. If you are having emotional problems
that are interfering with your quality of life, it is important to
discuss them with your doctor. Talk openly with your doctor about the
other things going on in your life that might be adding to your
feelings. Other things that could cause feelings of depression and/or
anxiety during menopause include:

Having depression before menopause

Feeling negative about menopause and getting older

Increased stress

Having severe menopausal symptoms

Smoking

Not being physically active

Not being happy in your relationship or not being in a relationship

Not having a job

Not having enough money

Having low self-esteem (how you feel about yourself)

Not having the social support you need

Feeling disappointed that you can't have children anymore

If
you need treatment for these symptoms, you and your doctor can work
together to find a treatment that is best for you. Depression during
perimenopause and menopause is treated in much the same way as
depression that strikes at any other time life. If your mood is
affecting your quality of life, here are a few things you can do:

Try
to get enough sleep. Go to bed and wake up at the same times every day.
Keep you room cool and dark. Use your bed only for sleeping and sex.
Avoid alcohol, caffeine, large meals, or physical activity before bed.

Engage in physical activity for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week.

Set
limits for yourself, and look for positive ways to unwind and ease
daily stress. Try relaxation techniques, reading a book, or spending
some quiet time outdoors.

Talk to your friends who are in
perimenopause or menopause or go to a support group for women who are
going through the same thing as you. You also can get counseling to
talk through your problems and fears.

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